A blog for all food allergy suffers

So here’s a title I didn’t think I’d be writing, or a film I didn’t think I’d ever need to be thinking about, but you know it’s a funny old world we live in, so here goes…. nb the following may ( at times) contain adult language. I’m not sorry.

It might have come to your attention this week that a certain scene in the new Peter Rabbit film involves targeting the “baddie” with his allergen ( blackberries) to induce an anaphylactic reaction, so those cute little bunnies can get their garden back. Oh and how the world has reacted, calls to boycott the film from angry and upset allergy parents and sufferers, and the comments from the keyboard worriers. The trolls and the fucking ignorant have been out in force and the comments have been vile. Good friends have been vilified for their upset over this scene and I’m not sure that people understand why? Well let me try and help you with this….

Unless you deal with allergies you will never know ( or care probably) about them. I mean why would you if you are not affected by them? As a parent with a child who has a severe allergy, let me tell you it often takes up a lot of your thoughts, worries and time. Any parent has a duty to keep their child safe. This is not being a ” Precious Snowflake ‘ as some have commented this week, it is more than that. Food allergy bullying is very real. My tiny four year old has already had teasing due to her nut allergies. I had not prepared her for it. I didn’t think it would happen with children so young. So here’s my beef with that scene. It’s a film aimed at kids, they are easily influenced. It would only take one view to sow the seed in wrong person’s mind. That same child could well be the one little shit that will smear peanut butter across an allergic child or spike their food or ( like the rabbit) try and somehow get the allergen into that person.

I hope you never have to take that trip in an ambulance with your child, whatever the reason.

It.is.horrendous

I’ve been there with my daughter, helpless as her breathing struggles, her face swells, her little body desperately rejecting the allergen, a shot of adrenaline does not instantly resolve the attack, sometimes it takes 2, sometimes it might not work and you are then faced with the possibility of losing a loved one.

Allergies kill, the lack of education around allergies will also kill. According to Anaphylaxis UK admissions to hospital for food allergies has increased by 700% since 1990. That is one huge increase. FAACT state that a study in 2010 found 35% of children with food allergies were bullied and the vast majority of those were bullied by another child. It’s probably seen as a joke, or a dare or curiosity to see what will happen, whatever, if any allergy requires the use of an epi-pen to treat a reaction it isn’t a laughing matter, and should at least be portrayed factually correct if going to be in a film.

In the scene the character administrators his epi-pen and then hey ho a minute later is off chasing rabbits again. This is NEVER the case in real life. I get the flow of the movie wouldn’t have been the same if McGregor was taken to hospital, but still it’s portraying that one shot is all you need. The amount of times I’ve had said to me -” It’s ok, she has her epi-pen” only high lights the lack of education and understanding there is around allergies. I’ve seen the scene, it’s stupid, and in my opinion not funny- my biggest moan is that it’s not correct either. I mean at least show the pen being used correctly ( 1/2 mark for the fact he does carry it though).

I’m not calling for you to boycott this movie, go see it, or don’t I really couldn’t give a rats arse. What I would urge you to do is use to opportunity to educate your kids. Explain why it’s dangerous to tease or use an allergen to target a person, actually just use the opportunity to teach that bullying is wrong, and in whatever capacity.

As for us we won’t be going to see the film, not because I’m being precious, it’s more to do with the fact mini me loathes Peter Rabbit in most capacities. I mean in her words “Well it’s not about a horse mummy, so it’s rubbish” and do you know what? I can’t say I blame her. This really is a far cry from the nostalgic tales that we all grew up with. Beatrix Potter’s lovable character has become an arse and I for one feel very disappointed with it.

Advertisements

Share this:

Like this:

Rejoice it’s pancake day, and may I say it’s always greeted with much gusto and enthusiasm. I’ll admit I’m rubbish at tossing a pancake, it gets stuck on, the cat, or the ceiling or in the pan, I opt for a spatula or let my husband do it. However I do make a pretty mean American pancake, or drop scone, or whatever the heck you want to call them.

This year has seen an added challenge. Mini me is ( temporarily I’m hoping) having to avoid both gluten and dairy, as well as nuts. So can you make a delicious dairy free pancake? Oh yes you can- and here’s how I do it.

Ingredients

110g gf self raising Flour

25g teff flour

1/2 tsp baking powder

1-2tbs caster sugar or 1-2tsp maple syrup.

1 egg

140mls milk of choice ( I used rice milk for the dairy free version).

I added chocolate chips ( from Moo Free) but blueberries or just plain work well as well.

Method

Mix all the ingredients together to form a batter. Fold in the chocolate chips.

I use a Tefel pancake pan with no oil. Pour some batter in, when it starts to show air bubbles it’s time to flip and cook the other side.

Share this:

Like this:

Yep you did indeed read the title correctly. Now gluten free donuts ( until recently) have been a bit like unicorns – not real, mythical and things you can only dream about.

In fact there are 2 delicious producers that I recommend these are Borough 22 and wheat free bakery direct. Check them out if you can ( btw this is not an ad I just really like these).

Any way I’ve digressed, for Christmas I got a mini donut maker. I mean I got a fab new bag as well, not just this electrical item, but I was impressed with it. This got me thinking will gluten and dairy free work? Only one way to find out…..

By golly it did, want to know how I did it?? Have a read below.

Ingredients

125 g gluten free plain flour

120g caster sugar

1 tsp baking powder

1 egg

120ml of milk of choice

1/2 tsp vanilla essence

1tbs butter or dairy free butter melted.

Method

Put dry ingredients into a bowl,

Make a well and pour in all your wet ingredients

Whisk until you have a smooth batter

Heat your donut maker

mine takes about 3-4 minutes to cook the little lovelies.

Either toss in cinnamon sugar, or ice however you fancy.

There you go, so easy, and so tasty. Even my husband ( who hates donuts) said they were good.

Share this:

Like this:

Well hello 2018. Whilst I’m not one for gushing posts I’d love to take the opportunity to wish all my friends, family, bloggers and followers a very Happy New Year.

I’m humbled to think my follower numbers and view are increasing, something I hope continues throughout the new year. We now have dairy free to contend with, so you and expect more recipes and reviews etc to incorporate this. As always if I can offer any advice regarding allergies and diet then feel free to send me a message. You are never alone, there’s always someone who will listen.

2017 proved challenging for us in some places. Health wise family members have suffered. Mini me started school- this is a milestone for all parents, but navigating food allergies in the mix as well requires lots of planning. We now flexi- school ( expect more posts on this) this means part home education and part school. I’ll add allergies were not the reason for this decision, and so far it’s proving to be the right choice. We are looking forward to our new challenges in 2018 and ready to face it full on.

All that’s left to say is I hope the hangovers recover soon, and bring it on 2018, we are ready for you.

Share this:

Like this:

For my third Blogmas post I’m sharing a recipe, (well sort or recipe) with you. The lovely people over at Naturelly were challenging people to create a layered jar. I took the challenge and my mango layered pot was the finished result, so far, I’m working on a truly Christmas twist for my next one.

If you have never heard of Naturelly they produce fabulous jelly/ juice pouches for children. Nut free, gluten free, dairy free and 36 calories so great for little ones- but who says the kids should have all the fun? I’ve given them a grown up twist.

Anyway the best thing with these jars are they are quick and so easy to make ( or assemble really). They would be so cute on a Christmas morning breakfast table, all prepared so the all important family time and present unwrapping isn’t interrupted. Win win all round.

I can’t really call it a recipe but here goes any way.

Ingredients

1 pouch tropical naturelly

Chopped mango

Yoghurt of choice

Granola ( I used Nutribrex)

The method is simple, layer up how you fancy. I chose mango, yoghurt, granola, mango then naturelly.

The next step is simple- dive in and enjoy your breakfast.

Do you like layered jars? What’s your favourite flavour? Let me know in the comments below.

Disclaimer: I was sent the naturelly to create a recipe, all views and ideas are my own.

Share this:

Like this:

Hello to you all, a bit of a different spin for my blogmas day 2 post.

I thought today I’d share with you my top five Local food and drink delights that are close to my home town of Stratford upon Avon. When I can I do try to support local businesses, I know they can cost a few more pennies ( sometimes) but the quality is often tons better and you are helping such things like a family business to make a living- every one’s a winner.

So who makes my top 5 ( in no particular order)?

1. Monsoon EstatesA family run business fronted by Anne and Chris who roast and sell the BEST coffee. This is an actual fact. My personal favourites are Papa New Guinea Enorga and the Monsoon Malabar. Both dark roasts with such smooth flavours that work well in lattes and cappuccinos and espresso shot as well. I really recommend you try a flavour.

2. Wilde Nuts Located in the heart of Stratford this company sells nuts, raw granolas and trial mixes and some gorgeous vegan fudge. All gluten free and suitable for vegetarians and vegans. ( I obviously have a stash at work, well away from mini me).

3. Paxston & whitefield – Cheese, cheese and more cheese. I know not strictly an independent as they were founded in London and have about 4-5 shops, but one of those is in the town, and has been for as long as I can remember. They also stock locally made cheeses. All are delicious- The Stilton and Shropshire Blue being my top picks. This is a must for my Christmas cheese board.

4. Weston On Avon Farm shop. This really is a hidden gem. All our veg that we don’t grow ourselves comes from here. A family farm selling out of a converted garage. Often the produce is picked fresh from the field. You can guess where my winter vegetables are coming from.

5. Shakespeare Distillery Another local business, the creators of the Stratford Gin and about 4 miles away from my home. G&T is one of my favourite tipples, and this is one of my Christmas drink staples.

So there you have my round up of my top 5 Local food and drink suppliers. Have you tried any of these products? If so let me know your thoughts in the comments below.

Share this:

Like this:

Don’t worry I’m not going to be singing to you. I sound like a budgie on helium it wouldn’t be pretty.

However I am using this – my first blogmas post as a brief introduction of all the festive loveliness that I have lined up for the the run up to the big day.

I love Christmas, it’s no secret and I have a feeling that mini me is going exactly the same way. I kid you not she’s been asking about how many “sleeps” there are left since mid October. If I confess I’ve had a reignited passion for all things festive since having children, and ( the real clincher) leaving retail. To those of you who do work in the retail sector, hang in there, Christmas Eve is in sight and so is that large G&T to reward yourself when you get there.

Anyway I’ve digressed a tiny bit…. so what have I got planned?? Well seeing as allergies and Free From is a lot of what we are about I’ll be featuring some recipes and reviews of the best of Christmas goodies on offer this year, as well as how we go about things in our house in terms of traditions, and the obligatory Christmas tree post as well. There also might be the odd competition.

I hope that has tickled your tastebuds? Sit back and relax and have a good read of all the posts that will drop over this blogmas period.

Share this:

Like this:

As Autumn is slowly creeping into winter and the days are getting shorter, you may change your menu choices. Out with the lighter salads and Eaton Messes and in with stews, hot pots and warm puddings ( or comfort food as my nan used to say).

Enter this Dorset apple cake. Inspired by my grand parents who hailed from west bay, and the fact I’ve got loads of apples from our tree. It’s the time of year to make it. When I was younger my nan would always have a bonfire party, and always make this as a pudding. Our party is belated and was last week, I couldn’t possibly not make it now could I?

Peel and slice the apples. Cover in the lemon juice to prevent browning of the apples.

In a bowl combine the butter and sugar until pale and fluffy

whisk in the eggs

Add the cinnamon and mixed spice.

Mix in the flours until you have a smooth cake batter

Pour in half the mixture then cover with a layer of apples

Cover the apples with more mixture and a further layer of apples

Use the remaining mixture to cover the last layer of apples

Cook in the oven for 45-50 minutes or until an inserted knife comes out clean. You may need to adjust time for a fan-assisted oven.

Leave to cool in the tin for 5-10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

NB you can grate the apples and add to the mixture if you prefer apple all the way through.

So there you have it, easy and satisfying. Right I could do with a slice myself, I’m planning blogmas posts, and really trying to improve my organisational skills- so far it’s not going great. Wish me luck.

Until next time x

Share this:

Like this:

Well it’s most definitely getting colder, and autumn has set in with considerable force. The chickens did not like Ophelia the other day, poor things resembling feathered ping pong balls. They were wise and retreated to their run, likewise we battened down the hatches and stayed in the warm.

The other day I spotted this apple pie in the fresh free from counter in Sainsbury’s. It’s the right time of year for fruit pies, and my pastry is usually hit or miss so I thought I’d give this a go.

Like a lot of gluten free products this is best eaten warm so 15 minutes later out it came looking all golden and tempting.

So did it pass the taste test? Mostly yes. The pastry was lovely and buttery, with no soggy bottoms here although I didn’t particularly like the sugar on the top, it gave a texture that was grainy and too crunchy for my liking.

The filling is generous and has a good tang with I think a Bramley apple filling should have. You can actually taste the apples, this is a bonus for gluten free- I do feel some brands over compensate with sugar, instead of trying to perfect taste.

On the whole I was impressed and despite the crunchy topping I would buy this again. It’s great if you are in a rush and need a dessert or ( like me) pastry isn’t your strongest point.

Have you tried these apple pies? Or anything else from the Sainsbury’s range? Let me know in the comments below.

Disclaimer: This is NOT a sponsored post. I purchased the items and all views are my own personal ones.

Share this:

Like this:

My Daughter is Thomas mad, I mean obsessed with Thomas. We had a disaster of a holiday, resulting in a broken narrow boat and being stranded by a lock ( thanks Hoseasons) so to make up for said disaster we had our first trip to Drayton Manor Park.

Munchkin spent the first hour in a mixture of excitement and amazement, and I have to admit it brought back nostalgia from school trips and summer holidays in my teenage years. Thomas Land is fantastic, lots of rides all perfect for little ones, plenty of photo opportunities and trains, lots of trains.

Personal highlights are the Troublesome Trucks, and Winston’s Car ride. We loved it so much we booked an over night stay a few weeks later in the hotel for the much anticipated 4th Birthday.

Fast forward to this point, the check in was smooth and very easy. For £30 extra we were offered the themed Thomas bedroom. We said yes- they are amazing from Thomas bunk beds, stunning painted walls, track carpets and breakfast with The Fat Controller the next morning I’d really recommend a stop over if you can ( this is not a sponsored post it REALLY is that great).

This leads me on to eating in the hotel and park. In every outlet there is full allergen menus, many you do t need to ask its all displayed on the walls. This is from The Burger Kutchen, an actual burger that’s both gluten and nut free. Thumbs up all round ( delicious it was to).

The Grill in is another excellent choice. Both chef and magnet sign to say your food is safe to eat. They even did a extra safe special treat for mini me on her birthday. We were so touched and could not sing their praises higher.

I really recommend you go for a day ( or two) to Drayton Manor it’s great fun for all, with or with out allergies.

Disclaimer: This is not a sponsored post. It’s all my own views and I was really impressed.